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Winter fun for less

February 13, 2019

With the recent blasts of wintery weather in York Region we are likely all relieved that Wiarton Willie did not see his shadow. So, it is time to enjoy winter while it lasts – no shadow means an early spring is coming.

With so much to see and do in York Region, why not head out to explore a wide range of recreational and cultural venues, activities and historic sites?

The truth is, it’s hard to share the amazing stories of York Region, and that’s what makes it so special.

It’s home. It’s work. It’s play! There is something for everyone. York Region prides itself in being an inclusive community, with leisure options for all ages and abilities.

Embrace the chill of winter and take in our top nine list of winter fun for the whole family, and the best part is that you don’t need to break the bank for these fun family activities.

Build a Snowman: No matter what age you are, you can enjoy making a snowman. Making a snowman is a fun way to get the family outdoors and active without spending any money at all.

For a list of other opportunities to explore the forest in the snow click here.

Lace up and head ice skating: A fun way to get the whole family out having fun is by going ice skating. In most areas across York Region ice skating is a very affordable family activity and available at your local community centre. Looking to be surrounded by nature? Take the family to the Richmond Green Skate Trail, featuring 250M outdoor skate trail and lights for evening skating.

Put down the tablet and pick up a tube: During the cold months, The ROC is an amazing winter activity centre with tubing, skating and even snowboard lessons for the little adventurers in the family. The best part here is that after all the fun outside, you can cozy up indoors with great food and drinks.

Support a local event: The Region’s nine cities and towns offer a mix of small town charm, memorable rural villages, family-friendly suburban neighbourhoods and cosmopolitan city centres. This winter take-in one of the many local family events, planned and organized locally.

Feeling inspired? Check out the Town of Aurora’s Artic Adventure. The event features a whole list of family activities including, professional ice carving, outdoor winter games and live entertainment.

Embrace the below freezing temperatures with ice fishing: Bordered by York Region, Lake Simcoe is known as the “ice fishing capital of Canada,” more people fish on Lake Simcoe in winter than all other seasons combined. But this deep lake activity may not always be safe for the little ones and that’s why Vaughan Public Libraries’ Winter Carnival is a great alternative for the adventure seeking family. The evening is complete with a visit from Queen Elsa and Ice Fishing Games indoors making it fun for the whole family.

Go on a hike: Most people associate hiking with the warm months, but going on a winter hike can be just as enjoyable and offers you a whole new scenery. York Region’s extensive network of trails and forests are among the Region’s most cherished attractions. Born of ancient routes used by First Nations, the trail network now extends throughout each of the nine cities and towns. For starters try the Nokiidaa Trail in East Gwillimbury consists of a mix of deciduous forest, pine plantation, and frozen wetlands, making it perfect for those winter selfies.

Chill out with a hot cocoa: After hitting the ice for a skate at the Riverwalk Commons in Newmarket, you can take a time-out at Newmarket’s ice lounge. Featuring modern outdoor lounge furniture this destination is sure to impress! The lounge is just steps away from downtown Newmarket’s Main Street featuring retail shops, beauty salons, professional services and restaurants and pubs.

Enjoy walking beneath the Arch of Blessings and immerse yourself in sounds and cultures. Get hands-on and make your own Pig Hero paper lantern, then take a money bath and hit the “gong” for good fortune!

Hike to the Sugar Bush: As the weather warms up and the snow begins to melt we welcome maple syrup festivals across York Region. Join the fun with a hike at Cold Creek Conservation in King City for the ultimate experience in capturing the late winter’s sweetness. A guide will take you on a tour of the sugar bush, walk you through the process of maple snap extraction and give you a chance to tap a maple tree.

Help share your story by using #loveyr on social media all winter long. For a list of things to do in York Region visit the official tourism website, ExperienceYorkRegion.com

York Region; winter fun; exploreWith the recent blasts of wintery weather in York Region we are likely all relieved that Wiarton Willie did not see his shadow. The Regional Municipality of Yorken-USThe Regional Municipality of YorkNews